VOMA hosting meet-ups, open mics

July 30, 2013|Kayla Pongrac | Our Town Correspondent

Like many art organizations in the community, there are no shortages of events happening at the Venue of Merging Arts (VOMA) during the summertime. Next week, VOMA will hold an entrepreneur meet-up, as well as an open mic night for teens.

The monthly entrepreneur meet-up is to take place Aug. 5 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Club VOMA. The meet-up is catered toward people who have either started their own business, are in the process of doing so or are interested in the prospect. This free peer group, featuring creative and motivated business designers, is meant to provide collaboration, resource sharing, education and support network opportunities.

Group member Jill Nadorlik, who owns Nadorlik & Co., said she considers the meetings beneficial.

"I think the chance to bounce ideas off of one another is the most important thing that gets accomplished (at the meetings)," she said. "Often as entrepreneurs, we work in isolation. Knowing that other entrepreneurs have faced similar challenges and come through them is refreshing to hear."

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Nadorlik added that in today's economy, she knows that entrepreneurs continue to be a growing breed.

"I think we're seeing a wave across the country of people wanting to start their own businesses in reaction to the economy. Whether it's not finding a job out of school, losing your job or wanting extra income in retirement, entrepreneurs are popping up and largely breathing new life into small-town America," she said. "With the Internet, entrepreneurs in Johnstown can benefit from a low cost of living while working with customers across the country." The following evening, on Aug. 6, VOMA will host an open mic night for teens from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Hosted by teens for teens, the open mic gives musicians and performers a chance to get their voices heard. All genres are welcome. There is an admission fee. Food and drink will be for sale throughout evening.

During the second half of the open mic night, newly formed local rock band Blind Feeling will perform. To learn more about Blind Feeling, visit their Facebook page at facebook.com/BlindFeelingBand.

VOMA intern Taylor Swick said that the open mic nights tend to go over really well.

"Teen nights at VOMA are an amazing time because of the intimate experience of being an integral part of the show at a small venue," Swick said. "It is the perfect place for being with old friends and finding new ones."

VOMA is located at 307 Chestnut Street in the Cambria City section of Johnstown. For more information, visit the organization's official website at www.thevoma.com or search for them on Facebook.